The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is the official sequel to the 2023 blockbuster The Super Mario Bros. Movie and is part of the growing list of cartoon-based animated movies. The story expands the franchise into outer space, drawing inspiration from the acclaimed 2007 Wii game and introducing key characters like Rosalina and Bowser Jr.
Background and Official Announcement
Following the $1.36 billion success of the 2023 film, Nintendo and Illumination officially announced the sequel’s title and direction.
- Timeline: Development was confirmed on March 10, 2024 (MAR10 Day). The official title, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, was revealed during a September 12, 2025 Nintendo Direct.
- Production Team: Producers Shigeru Miyamoto (Nintendo) and Chris Meledandri (Illumination) return, with directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic leading the project.
- Source Material: The film is inspired by the 2007 Wii classic, shifting the setting from the Mushroom Kingdom to various planetary galaxies with gravity-defying mechanics.
Plot Summary
Though it doesn’t reveal much about its story beats, the title has at least revealed that the setting will have swerved away from the Mushroom Kingdom and on into the “vast universe” beyond. It’s expected to combine elements from the platformer video game series Super Mario Galaxy, through which Mario hops across planets and galaxies in a bid to collect Power Stars.
Key plot points teased in trailers and official statements include:
- The Search for Power Stars: Mario must help restore energy to the Comet Observatory.
- New Threats: Bowser Jr. makes his cinematic debut, appearing alongside his father, Bowser, who was last seen imprisoned in a miniature state.
- Expanded Lore: The film is expected to explore the origins of Princess Peach and her connection to the cosmos, a topic hinted at in the original movie.
Cast and Characters
The voice cast largely reprises roles from The Super Mario Bros. Movie, ensuring continuity for fans. Key announcements include:
| Character | Voice Actor | Notes |
| Mario | Chris Pratt | Returning lead role |
| Princess Peach | Anya Taylor-Joy | Returning |
| Luigi | Charlie Day | Returning |
| Bowser | Jack Black | Returning antagonist |
| Toad | Keegan-Michael Key | Returning |
| Kamek | Kevin Michael Richardson | Returning |
| Rosalina | Brie Larson | Confirmed (New) |
| Bowser Jr. | Benny Safdie | Confirmed (New) |
Rosalina, the enigmatic guardian of the Comet Observatory from the game, marks a significant debut. Additional casting for Lumas and other cosmic entities is expected closer to release.
Production Team
The creative team mirrors the first film’s successful formula:
- Directors: Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic
- Screenwriter: Matthew Fogel
- Producers: Chris Meledandri (Illumination) and Shigeru Miyamoto (Nintendo)
- Composer: Brian Tyler (returning)
- Co-financed by: Universal Pictures and Nintendo
- Distributor: Universal Pictures
Production emphasizes high-quality animation, with Illumination’s expertise in vibrant, character-driven stories. The score will incorporate iconic Mario themes adapted for orchestral space motifs.
Release Date and Distribution
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie premieres in theaters on April 3, 2026, in the U.S. and select global markets. Japan follows on April 24, 2026. The film will screen in standard, RealD 3D, and IMAX formats to enhance its visual spectacle.
An official trailer debuted on November 12, 2025, during a dedicated Nintendo Direct. Promotional tie-ins, including merchandise and game crossovers, are anticipated in early 2026.
Marketing and Tie-Ins
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’s promotion is the latest in a series that utilizes Nintendo’s 40th year and big gaming occasions to create worldwide hype.
- Official Trailers: The first teaser was released in September 2025, with the full trailer dropping on November 12, 2025, revealing space-travel mechanics and new characters.
- Video game re-releases: To coincide with the film, Nintendo released a 2-in-1 Super Mario Galaxy 1 & 2 bundle for the Nintendo Switch on October 2nd, 2025, with both titles receiving 4K enhancements for the Switch’s successor.
- Merchandise: A New Rosalina & Luma amiibo, based on the characters in Galaxy, as well as a hardcover edition of Rosalina’s storybook, are set to release inApril 2026.
- Cross-Promotion: Cooperative marketing involves cross-promotion with brands such as Universal Studios Parks and bringing product to the Nintendo Switch Online ecosystem.
FAQ
Is The Super Mario Galaxy Movie a direct sequel?
Yes, it is the direct sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) and continues the story of Mario and Luigi in the expanded Nintendo cinematic universe.
When does the movie come out?
The film is set to hit theatres in the United States on April 3, 2026.
Will Rosalina be in the movie?
Yes. Nintendo has confirmed that Rosalina and the Lumas will play a central role in the film, reflecting the plot of the Super Mario Galaxy games.
Who is directing the sequel?
Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic are returning to direct the sequel, ensuring creative consistency with the first film.